2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic, rugged appearance with a burly, body-on-frame design that was consistent across all models. Notable changes included a redesigned grille, which was shorter and wider, enhancing airflow to the engine bay. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a clever update, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. The Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, from traditional soft-tops to power-retractable sunroofs, and allowed for customization with removable doors and foldable windshields, catering to those seeking a true open-air experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Land Rover Defender combined a classic, boxy silhouette with modern touches like angular headlights, aligning it visually with other Land Rover models. Inside, the Defender felt more durable and adventure-ready, with a focus on soft-touch materials that elevated its rugged appeal. The Defender was available in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—each offering a range of trims. The interior was practical yet luxurious, with features like power-adjustable seats and a panoramic glass roof, making it suitable for both urban and off-road environments.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid version of this engine delivered 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. A 3.6-liter V6 engine provided 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the 6.4-liter V8 engine boasted 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler featured various transfer cases, enhancing its off-road capabilities, with options like the Command-Trac and Rock-Trac systems. The 4xe PHEV model was particularly impressive, offering 21 miles of all-electric range and matching the V8 in torque. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation, and the addition of sound-deadening materials improved cabin quietness.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered several powertrains, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the P300, producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The P400 model featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Two supercharged 5.0-liter V8 options, the P500 and P525, offered 493 and 518 horsepower, respectively. The Defender's full-time active four-wheel drive and advanced off-road systems, like the Terrain Response 2, made it highly capable off-road. The Defender 110 Carpathian Edition's V8 engine accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, showcasing its impressive power.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with certain models now able to tow up to 5,000 pounds, thanks to a full-float solid rear axle. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories. However, ventilated seats were not available, and the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement remained a challenge due to its solid front axle.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender balanced luxury and functionality, with soft-touch materials, grip handles, and rubberized floors. Seating capacity varied from five to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The Defender 130 offered the most cargo space, with up to 76.1 cubic feet available. The Defender 110 provided 78.8 cubic feet in its two-row version, while the Defender 90 offered up to 58.3 cubic feet. The interior was practical, with hard plastic surfaces in the cargo area for easy cleaning.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler featured a 12.3-inch center infotainment screen with Uconnect5, offering a user-friendly interface and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's speed was notably improved, especially when accessing Off-Road Pages. The Trails Offroad feature provided access to over 200 trails, with the option to subscribe for more. Additional features included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store up to five user profiles.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.4-inch touchscreen, which, while smaller than some competitors, suited its utilitarian design. The system included standard navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 10-speaker Meridian stereo. The straightforward setup and home buttons made it easy to navigate, providing a blend of refinement and utility.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, with forward collision warning standard on most models. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and park assist. The Wrangler had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but previous ratings indicated room for improvement in crash protection.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-departure and lane-keeping assist systems were somewhat intrusive but could be deactivated. As of this writing, the Defender had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.